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How PMI Handles Unplanned Emergencies What to Expect

How PMI Handles Unplanned Emergencies What to Expect 2025

When a health crisis strikes, your first thought is getting help—fast. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we know clarity is crucial. This guide explains how private medical insurance in the UK works with the NHS during unplanned emergencies, so you know exactly what to expect.

Expectations and exclusions for A&E and emergencies with private insurance

Understanding the role of Private Medical Insurance (PMI) during an emergency begins with one fundamental rule: PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It is not a replacement for the NHS emergency services.

Think of the NHS and private healthcare as a relay team. In a true, life-threatening emergency, the NHS always runs the first leg of the race.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken bone, appendicitis, or a cataract. PMI is built for this.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known 'cure', or is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure. Standard PMI policies do not cover the treatment of chronic conditions.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any condition for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before your policy started. These are typically excluded for a set period (moratorium underwriting) or entirely (full medical underwriting).

This distinction is the bedrock of the UK private health cover market. Your policy is there to provide choice, speed, and comfort for eligible non-emergency and post-emergency treatment of new, acute conditions.

The NHS and A&E: Your First Port of Call in an Emergency

If you are facing a serious or life-threatening situation, your first and only action should be to contact the NHS.

Dial 999 for an ambulance or go directly to your nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) department.

PMI policies universally exclude initial treatment in an A&E setting. This is because A&E departments are uniquely equipped to handle the critical, immediate phase of any medical emergency. The scale of this service is immense; according to NHS England, there were over 2.2 million A&E attendances in April 2024 alone.

Examples of emergencies that require immediate NHS care include:

  • Signs of a heart attack (chest pain, shortness of breath)
  • Signs of a stroke (FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 999)
  • Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
  • Major trauma from an accident

Your private health insurance provider expects and requires you to use the free-at-the-point-of-use NHS service for these initial, critical interventions.

When Does Private Medical Insurance Kick In After an Emergency?

This is the most common question we receive, and the answer highlights the true value of a PMI policy. Private health cover activates at the point where the 'emergency' phase ends and the 'treatment and recovery' phase begins.

Imagine the journey from emergency to recovery in these steps:

  1. The Incident: You have a serious fall while hiking and suspect a complex leg fracture.
  2. NHS Emergency Care: A 999 call brings an ambulance. You are taken to the local A&E, where doctors assess you, provide pain relief, and perform X-rays. This is all handled by the NHS.
  3. The Diagnosis & Plan: The NHS consultant confirms a tibial plateau fracture that requires complex surgery. You are stabilised and admitted to an NHS ward. The consultant informs you that you will be placed on a surgical waiting list.
  4. PMI Activation Point: This is where you can activate your private medical insurance. Instead of waiting for the surgery on the NHS, you can choose to have the procedure performed privately.
  5. The Private Pathway:
    • You contact your insurer's claims line.
    • You provide your policy number and the details of the diagnosis and recommended surgery.
    • The insurer provides an authorisation number for the private treatment.
    • You are transferred to a private hospital of your choice (from your insurer's approved list).
    • A specialist surgeon performs the operation at a time that suits you.
    • You recover in a private room with en-suite facilities.
    • Your follow-up physiotherapy and rehabilitation are also covered under your plan.

In this scenario, PMI provides speed, choice of specialist and hospital, and a more comfortable recovery environment.

While the initial A&E visit is excluded, a good private health insurance UK policy will cover a wide range of treatments that follow an emergency. Here’s a typical breakdown of what’s covered and what’s not.

Service or TreatmentTypically Covered by PMI?Notes
Emergency Services
999 Ambulance❌ NoHandled by the NHS.
A&E Department Visit❌ NoAll initial assessment and stabilisation is on the NHS.
Post-Stabilisation Care
In-patient & Day-patient Surgery✅ YesFor acute conditions diagnosed following an emergency.
Specialist Consultations✅ YesSeeing a consultant privately to manage your treatment plan.
Private Hospital Room✅ YesIncludes nursing care and accommodation costs.
Anaesthetist & Surgeon Fees✅ YesCovered up to the insurer's fee guidelines.
Diagnostics & Follow-Up
MRI, CT, and PET Scans✅ YesWhen required to plan your post-emergency treatment.
Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation✅ YesCrucial for recovery after surgery or injury.
Related Exclusions
Chronic Condition Management❌ NoIf the emergency was a flare-up of a chronic illness like diabetes.
Pre-existing Conditions❌ NoConditions you had before the policy started are not covered.

An experienced PMI broker, like the team at WeCovr, can help you dissect these policy details to ensure you have the cover that matters most to you.

Knowing what to do when you need to make a claim can significantly reduce stress. Follow this simple process:

  1. Prioritise Your Health: In an emergency, do not think about insurance. Get the NHS medical attention you need immediately.
  2. Contact Your Insurer: Once you are stable and a consultant has recommended a course of treatment (like surgery or further investigation), call your PMI provider's claims helpline. This number will be on your policy documents and membership card.
  3. Gather Your Information: To speed up the call, have the following ready:
    • Your policy number.
    • The name of the NHS consultant and hospital you are in.
    • The diagnosis and the proposed treatment plan.
  4. Receive Pre-Authorisation: This is the most important step. Your insurer will assess the claim against your policy terms and, if approved, will give you an authorisation number. Do not proceed with any private treatment or consultations until you have this authorisation.
  5. Arrange Your Private Care: Once authorised, you, your NHS team, or your insurer can help coordinate your transfer to a private facility. The insurer will typically handle payments directly with the hospital and specialists, leaving you to focus on your recovery.

Real-Life Scenarios: How PMI Responds to Different Emergencies

Let's look at a few more examples to see how this works in practice.

Scenario 1: The Acute Sports Injury

A keen footballer ruptures their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a weekend match.

  • NHS: They visit A&E, get an initial diagnosis, and are referred to an NHS orthopaedic specialist. The waiting list for reconstructive surgery can be many months.
  • PMI Pathway: The patient uses their private medical insurance to see a specialist within days. The surgery is scheduled for the following week in a private hospital. Their policy also covers the extensive post-operative physiotherapy needed to get them back on the pitch.

Scenario 2: Sudden Abdominal Pain

A person experiences severe, debilitating abdominal pain and goes to A&E.

  • NHS: Doctors perform an ultrasound and diagnose acute appendicitis, requiring an appendectomy. The patient is added to the emergency surgery list.
  • PMI Pathway: The patient is stable but wants to ensure the procedure is done quickly and by a surgeon of their choice. They contact their insurer, get authorisation, and are transferred to a local private hospital for the operation that same day.

Scenario 3: A Neurological Symptom

Someone experiences sudden, temporary vision loss in one eye.

  • NHS: A&E rules out a stroke but refers them to an NHS ophthalmologist and neurologist for urgent investigation, which may still take several weeks.
  • PMI Pathway: The patient uses their PMI's 'Digital GP' service for an immediate video consultation. The GP provides an open referral. The patient calls their insurer and is booked in for an MRI and a private neurology consultation within 48 hours to get a swift diagnosis and peace of mind.

The Financial Aspect: Understanding Excesses and Policy Limits

When you use your PMI, two financial elements come into play: the excess and the overall policy limits.

  • Excess: This is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim each policy year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your approved claim for private surgery is £8,000, you would pay the first £250, and your insurer would pay the remaining £7,750. Choosing a higher excess is a common way to reduce your monthly premiums.
  • Policy Limits: Most UK PMI policies offer very high levels of cover, often with an annual limit of £1 million or even unlimited for eligible in-patient treatment. This is almost always more than enough to cover the costs associated with even the most complex post-emergency procedures.

An adviser at WeCovr can model different excess levels for you, showing you how they impact your premium and helping you find the sweet spot between affordability and comprehensive cover.

Prevention is Better Than Cure: How PMI Supports Your Overall Wellness

Modern private health cover is about more than just reacting to illness; it's about proactively supporting your health to prevent emergencies from happening. The best PMI providers now include a wealth of wellness benefits:

  • Discounted Gym Memberships: Encouraging you to stay active.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to therapy and counselling services, often without needing a GP referral.
  • Health Screenings: Proactive checks for common conditions like high cholesterol or early signs of cancer.
  • Nutrition and Diet Support: Many insurers offer apps and expert advice to help you manage your weight and eat healthily.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, making it easier than ever to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, customers who buy PMI or life insurance through us often receive discounts on other types of cover, adding even more value.

Choosing the Right Private Medical Insurance UK Policy for Your Needs

Not all policies are created equal. When considering cover for yourself or your family, pay close attention to the details.

FeatureWhat to Look ForWhy It Matters for Emergencies
Hospital ListCheck which hospitals are included. Are they near your home and work? Do they have a good reputation?In a post-emergency transfer, you want access to a high-quality facility without a long journey.
Outpatient CoverDoes the policy have a low limit (e.g., £500) or offer 'full cover' for diagnostics and consultations?After an emergency, you may need multiple scans and specialist visits. Full cover avoids unexpected shortfalls.
Therapies CoverIs physiotherapy included as standard, and what are the limits?Rehabilitation is key to recovery. A policy with generous therapies cover is essential after accidents or surgery.
Cancer CoverHow comprehensive is the cancer pathway? Does it include access to the latest drugs and treatments?An emergency could lead to a cancer diagnosis. You want the best possible cover in place for this eventuality.

Navigating these options can be overwhelming. This is where an independent broker provides invaluable support. The expert team at WeCovr compares plans from leading providers like Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality. We take the time to understand your needs and budget, explaining the pros and cons of each option in plain English, all at no cost to you. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right policy for every client.


Will my private health insurance cover a 999 ambulance ride?

No. Standard UK private medical insurance policies do not cover the cost of emergency ambulance services. This is a core service provided by the NHS, which is your first point of call in a genuine emergency. Private cover begins after you have been stabilised.

Can I use my PMI for an emergency that happens while I am abroad?

Generally, no. Your UK private medical insurance is designed for treatment within the United Kingdom. For medical emergencies abroad, you need dedicated travel insurance. Some high-end international PMI plans exist, but these are specialist products and differ from standard UK cover. Always ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance before going overseas.

How do I know if my condition is 'acute' or 'chronic'?

An 'acute' condition is a short-term illness or injury that can be cured with treatment, such as a hernia, gallstones, or a joint injury. A 'chronic' condition is long-lasting, has no definitive cure, and requires ongoing management, such as diabetes, asthma, or Crohn's disease. PMI is designed to cover the treatment of new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts.

An emergency is an unsettling experience, but knowing how your health insurance fits into the picture provides valuable reassurance. Your policy is a powerful tool for accessing first-class treatment and a comfortable recovery once the immediate crisis has been managed by the NHS.

Ready to explore your options and find the right protection?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find a policy that gives you peace of mind.


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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.


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